Braces can trap food very easily, which contributes to formation of dental plaque. Plaque is a mixture of bacteria, debris and food particles. If plaque is not removed from teeth and from around your braces, you run the risk of developing gum disease, cavities and bad breath. The bacteria consume sugars and excrete acids. The acids can make your gums inflame (gingivitis), dissolve the enamel on your teeth and cause bad breath (halitosis).

It’s important to remove the plaque thoroughly and frequently. Then, when your braces come off, the surfaces of your teeth underneath the braces will be healthy and strong and look good.

Here are some tips to help you:

Brushing

It is better to use a ultra-soft-bristle toothbrush. These bristles can adapt better to the surface of the tooth and are able to access the nooks and crannies around your braces and orthodontic appliances easier. Also don’t cause any irritation to your gums. Electric toothbrushes are not necessary, but if you have one, it’s safe to use it on your braces. Just be careful not to hit the plastic back of the brush against your braces because it can damage them. Also, if possible avoid the highest setting to minimize the risk of breaking and loosening your braces. It is recommended to brush after each meal. This ensures that there is no food particles trapped in or around the braces. If a toothbrush is not available after your meal, rinse your mouth thoroughly with copious amount of water.

Flossing

It is necessary to floss at least once a day. Floss threader and special kind of floss that is designed specifically for orthodontic patients can help you get into the space between the wires and your gum line.

Fluoride

You need to use a fluoridated toothpaste. An over-the-counter fluoride rinse might be recommended to you . These rinses usually provide enough fluoride to help protect your teeth against cavities during orthodontic treatment. However, if you have a history of multiple cavities or are otherwise at risk of decay, you may be prescribed a rinse that contains higher concentration of fluoride. Another option to receive your fluoride is to consider an office treatment. This fluoride is usually in the form of a gel or varnish and is administered by a dental professional. During orthodontic treatment, see your family dentist for a complete examination every three to six months.

True orthodontic emergencies are very rare, but when they do occur, we are always available for you. As a general rule, you should call the office when you experience severe pain or when you have a painful appliance problem that you can’t take care of yourself. We’ll be able to schedule an appointment to resolve the problem.

You might be surprised to learn that you may be able to temporarily solve many problems yourself until you schedule an appointment with our office. When working with your appliances, you need to know the names of the parts of your appliances so you are able to identify what part is broken or out of place.

Part A

Ligature: The archwire is held to each bracket with a ligature, which can be either a tiny elastic or a twisted wire.

Part B

Archwire: The archwire is tied to all of the brackets and creates forces to move teeth into proper alignment.

Part C

Brackets: Brackets are directly bonded on the teeth and hold the archwire in place.

Part D

Metal band: The band is the cemented ring of metal which surrounds the tooth

Part E

Hooks & Elastomeric Chain: Elastic hooks are used for the attachment of rubber bands, which help move teeth toward their final position.

After alleviating your discomfort, it is very important that you still call our office as soon as possible to schedule a time to repair the problem. Allowing your appliance to remain damaged for an extended period of time may result in disruptions in your treatment plan. The following solutions may help you relieve your discomfort:

Loose/ Poking Wire

Place wax on it to alleviate the discomfort.

Loose Bracket or Band 

If your bracket or band is still attached to the wire, you should leave it in place and put wax on it. If the wire comes out entirely, wrap the bracket with a tissue.

Loose Appliance

If your appliance is poking you, place wax on the offending part of your appliance.

General Soreness

When you get your braces on, you may feel general soreness in your mouth; teeth may be tender to biting pressures for three to five days. This can be relieved by rinsing your mouth with warm salt water rinses. Dissolve one teaspoonful of salt in 8 ounces of warm water, and rinse your mouth vigorously.

Placing Orabase on the affected area may help; this can be found in your local pharmacy. If the tenderness is severe, take Paracetamol tablets (500/ 650mg). The lips, cheeks and tongue may also become irritated for one to two weeks as they toughen and become accustomed to the surface of the braces. You can put wax on the braces to lessen this.

Food caught between teeth

This is not an emergency, but can be a little uncomfortable or embarrassing for the braces- wearing patient. It is easily fixed with a piece of dental floss. Try tying a small knot in the middle of the floss to help remove the food, or use an interproximal brush or toothpick to dislodge food caught between teeth and braces.